‘Two new ambulances have been procured’

The port’s preparedness to deal with any Royal Diamond-7 like explosion in the future is being enhanced, said Captain Shailendra Kohli, deputy conservator, Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT).

What steps are being taken to prevent explosions on vessels, similar to Royal Diamond-7, in the future?

The accident on Korean chemical vessel Royal Diamond-7 was not due to any omission or commission on the part of the port trust. However, the port’s preparedness to tackle any such unforeseen contingencies is being improved further.

The firefighting apparatus at Pir Pau and Haji Bunder is not as good as Princess Dock and Butcher Island. Is there an upgradation plan?

The firefighting system at Pir Pau and Haji Bunder is in accordance with the fire service norms. The port fire service has been provided with two new ambulances and two fire jeeps. The mechanical engineering department is handling the replacement of fire tenders. Due to the non-availability of chassis of Euro IV standards, the process is being delayed. So, we obtained an extension for the use of existing fire tenders from the high court.

Around 20 posts of section leaders and senior section leaders are lying vacant. When will they get filled?

Only two posts of senior section leader and 3 posts of section leader are vacant. Hiring for the posts is in progress.

The ferry used to travel to marine oil depots has no radio communication system, firefighting equipment or life jackets. How can you prevent an accident on such a ferry?

The crafts being used for ferrying employees are duly registered and have the required equipment.